The sprightly pensioner has proved a godsend to Christine Dorward and the pair have struck up a very special friendship after being brought closer together by tragedy.

Since becoming neighbours six years ago, the two women have developed a strong bond and Connie is always there to lend a hand and help disabled Christine in any way she can.

"I couldn't manage without her," Christine said. "Although there's quite an age difference between us, she is still very young at heart.

"At first we just used to talk over the garden fence, but when she lost her husband we got to know each other better and now we are the best of friends. It's so lovely to have a neighbour like Connie. I feel so lucky."

Christine, 49, suffers from osteoporosis and osteoarthritis and her home at Collin Avenue, South Shields, has been specially adapted for her needs.

"Although the inside is perfect, the outside of the house has steps instead of a ramp, but I would never ever move because I would never find another neighbour like Connie."

Every week the pair share a taxi to the supermarket and just a few weeks ago they were mistaken for mother and daughter.

Christine said: "The checkout girl said it was nice to see a mother and daughter out shopping together. We thought it was such a lovely thing for her to say that we didn't correct her."

Connie, now in her 70s, agrees: "We are very good friends and it works both ways because she is a very good neighbour to me as well.

"I think we have both kind of adopted each other as part of our families and I wouldn't have it any other way."

The winner of the Chronicle's annual competition, sponsored by the Home Housing Association, is now just a few weeks away from being named.

Eight entrants will be shortlisted and the winner will scoop a &#xA3;1,000 cash prize and a trophy while second and third place entrants will land &#xA3;600 and &#xA3;400.

And one lucky person who has put forward a nomination will win an exclusive theatre break for two to London.